We cannot feel guilty until we face our internal monsters. This personal statement may sound harsh, but I consider it profoundly important. Upon calculating my Carbon Footprint, I discovered that I engage in practices that are detrimental to our planet. For example, I emit 2.98 tons of CO2, which exceeds Ecuador’s average of 2.31 tons. This research is crucial for understanding my impact on the world. According to The Nature Conservancy Website, “A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by our actions” (Nature.org, n.d).
Recognition is the first step towards improving our lives, so I researched ideas to reduce my carbon footprint at home. My usage primarily involves electricity, as I work as a Developer and keep my computer on all day. I came across a suggestion from Laura Cozzi, Director of Sustainability, Technology, and Outlooks, and Timothy Goodson, Energy Modeller: “Yet by changing the way they use electricity, consumers can reduce demand during more carbon-intensive hours of the day and make it easier to decarbonize” (Cozzi & Goodson, 2020). I believe this change is feasible, such as adjusting my schedule, turning off the computer when I am away from my desk or not working, using my mobile phone instead of the computer for tasks that allow it, or using my laptop one day a week. I understand that these changes will impact future generations positively.
References
Empowering electricity consumers to lower their carbon footprint – Analysis – IEA. (2020, January 15). IEA. https://www.iea.org/commentaries/empowering-electricity-consumers-to-lower-their-carbon-footprint
What is your carbon footprint? (n.d.). The Nature Conservancy. https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/carbon-footprint-calculator/